Family Therapy in Park Rapids, MN

Photo of Rita Anderson - Wellness Matters, MA, LPCC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rita Anderson - Wellness Matters
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park Rapids, MN 56470
Waitlist for new clients
Is this your first time seeking therapy? Are you dissatisfied with your current or prior therapist? The life experiences of the team at Wellness Matters - blended family, physical disability, poverty, substance misuse, co-dependency, loss of parents, retirement - provides a very personal basis for compassionately providing empathy and support.
Do you feel stuck? Are you a therapist, nurse, doctor, educator or other professional struggling to manage stress? At Wellness Matters LLC, we take a practical approach to therapy. We quickly identify key concerns that can be targeted for immediate improvement. We are proficient in coping skill development for health and happiness. We help “pull back the curtain” on unhelpful thinking patterns and maladaptive interpersonal dynamics. We help highlight choice points for experimenting with new behaviors with the goal of improving functioning and increasing joy.
Is this your first time seeking therapy? Are you dissatisfied with your current or prior therapist? The life experiences of the team at Wellness Matters - blended family, physical disability, poverty, substance misuse, co-dependency, loss of parents, retirement - provides a very personal basis for compassionately providing empathy and support.
Do you feel stuck? Are you a therapist, nurse, doctor, educator or other professional struggling to manage stress? At Wellness Matters LLC, we take a practical approach to therapy. We quickly identify key concerns that can be targeted for immediate improvement. We are proficient in coping skill development for health and happiness. We help “pull back the curtain” on unhelpful thinking patterns and maladaptive interpersonal dynamics. We help highlight choice points for experimenting with new behaviors with the goal of improving functioning and increasing joy.
(218) 366-8697 View (218) 366-8697
Photo of Shirley J Rader, PhD, Psychologist
Shirley J Rader
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Park Rapids, MN 56470
Eclectic, including insight-oriented, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, Gestalt, family, and integrational (Christian spiritual values and psychology integrated), depending upon the client's need.
I have been in private practice for 23 years in Detroit Lakes, MN, and Fargo, ND. I have worked in the human service field for 35+ years, and I currently have my office ONLY in Detroit Lakes, MN. I specialize in stress/anxiety/depression related issues, incl. PTSD and sexual abuse. I also specialize in the integration of psychology and Christian spiritual values. I am licensed in MN. I accept most insurance plans. I enjoy working with people of different ages (age six and older), individuals, couples, families and groups, as well as public speaking, workshops, etc. NOTE: I no longer see clients in Fargo.
Eclectic, including insight-oriented, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, Gestalt, family, and integrational (Christian spiritual values and psychology integrated), depending upon the client's need.
I have been in private practice for 23 years in Detroit Lakes, MN, and Fargo, ND. I have worked in the human service field for 35+ years, and I currently have my office ONLY in Detroit Lakes, MN. I specialize in stress/anxiety/depression related issues, incl. PTSD and sexual abuse. I also specialize in the integration of psychology and Christian spiritual values. I am licensed in MN. I accept most insurance plans. I enjoy working with people of different ages (age six and older), individuals, couples, families and groups, as well as public speaking, workshops, etc. NOTE: I no longer see clients in Fargo.
(218) 656-0905 View (218) 656-0905
Photo of Katherine L Fritsch, MA, LPCC, LADC
Katherine L Fritsch
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park Rapids, MN 56470
Every person is different and has their own distinct challenges and their own story. That is why it is crucial to me that your care is specific to you and meets your individual needs. What holds you back from being comfortable in the uncomfortable? At times you may feel overwhelmed, anxious, relationships are not working, and that you cannot balance your feelings. Now is the time to find your own calm in a world that does not slow down. The ability to understand and find yourself, may lead you to face life with confidence.
Every person is different and has their own distinct challenges and their own story. That is why it is crucial to me that your care is specific to you and meets your individual needs. What holds you back from being comfortable in the uncomfortable? At times you may feel overwhelmed, anxious, relationships are not working, and that you cannot balance your feelings. Now is the time to find your own calm in a world that does not slow down. The ability to understand and find yourself, may lead you to face life with confidence.
(218) 423-6794 View (218) 423-6794
Photo of David Berg - David Berg, MA, LMFT, LADC, MA, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Berg, MA, LMFT, LADC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park Rapids, MN 56470
Online Therapy and Telehealth only. Currently accepting new day clients. My passion is helping people improve their lives, relationships, and find greater fulfillment. I help people help themselves. I've had the pleasure of a career of many years practicing counseling, therapy, coaching, and social work with individuals, couples, groups, and families in multiple settings. I am a Certified Clinically Trained Gottman Method and Emotions Focused Couples Therapist.
Online Therapy and Telehealth only. Currently accepting new day clients. My passion is helping people improve their lives, relationships, and find greater fulfillment. I help people help themselves. I've had the pleasure of a career of many years practicing counseling, therapy, coaching, and social work with individuals, couples, groups, and families in multiple settings. I am a Certified Clinically Trained Gottman Method and Emotions Focused Couples Therapist.
(218) 453-7020 View (218) 453-7020
Photo of Emily Pierson, MEd, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Pierson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Park Rapids, MN 56470  (Online Only)
Life is full of change. Some change can be positive but other times it can be anxiety provoking, depressing or destabilizing. I have experience working with teens, children, and adults on managing and alleviating depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, and overall wellness. I am trained in EMDR Therapy. I take a somatic and attachment focused approach when using EMDR to treat trauma, reprocess memories that lead to negative self-talk, alleviate anxiety, depression or PTSD, and improve self-image. I also incorporate implementing healthy life habits into an overall wellness approach.
Life is full of change. Some change can be positive but other times it can be anxiety provoking, depressing or destabilizing. I have experience working with teens, children, and adults on managing and alleviating depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, and overall wellness. I am trained in EMDR Therapy. I take a somatic and attachment focused approach when using EMDR to treat trauma, reprocess memories that lead to negative self-talk, alleviate anxiety, depression or PTSD, and improve self-image. I also incorporate implementing healthy life habits into an overall wellness approach.
(218) 520-3396 View (218) 520-3396

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Rene Mooney, PsyD LP, E PASS, RPT-S, CRT SPT, RYT-200, Psychologist
Dr. Rene Mooney
Psychologist, PsyD LP, E PASS, RPT-S, CRT SPT, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Thief River Falls, MN 56701
At Storybook we treat adults, children, adolescents, and families with individual, family, marital, and group therapy.
At Storybook Wellness, our goal is to support individuals and families of all shapes and sizes. We value the importance of mental health for all individuals within the family as well as the family as a unit. We take a holistic approach to mental health with the knowledge that our mind, body, and spirit are all intricately connected both within ourselves and with those who we love.
At Storybook we treat adults, children, adolescents, and families with individual, family, marital, and group therapy.
At Storybook Wellness, our goal is to support individuals and families of all shapes and sizes. We value the importance of mental health for all individuals within the family as well as the family as a unit. We take a holistic approach to mental health with the knowledge that our mind, body, and spirit are all intricately connected both within ourselves and with those who we love.
(218) 321-9651 View (218) 321-9651
Photo of Bruce E Fischer, PhD, LP, LMFT, Psychologist
Bruce E Fischer
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crosslake, MN 56442  (Online Only)
I do couple & family counseling.
I've been working with adults and teens for over 47 years. My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that will be beneficial to you. My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem and pride.
I do couple & family counseling.
I've been working with adults and teens for over 47 years. My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that will be beneficial to you. My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem and pride.
(612) 223-7345 View (612) 223-7345
Photo of Amber Rosier, MSW, LICSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Rosier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brainerd, MN 56401
Waitlist for new clients
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Insight, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Skills (DBT), and many more!.
I have 4+ years of experience in working with trauma in all ages and genders. I utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and it is helping so many people in a short amount of time! Contact me for a consultation regarding ART. I also work with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, post-traumatic stress disorder, and many other diagnoses.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Insight, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Skills (DBT), and many more!.
I have 4+ years of experience in working with trauma in all ages and genders. I utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and it is helping so many people in a short amount of time! Contact me for a consultation regarding ART. I also work with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, post-traumatic stress disorder, and many other diagnoses.
(218) 357-4567 View (218) 357-4567
Photo of Jeanne G Grenvik, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeanne G Grenvik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fergus Falls, MN 56537  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in abuse and trauma, anger management, blended family issues, Christian counseling, conflict resolution, depression and anxiety, divorce recovery, domestic violence, marriage restoration and women's issues.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in abuse and trauma, anger management, blended family issues, Christian counseling, conflict resolution, depression and anxiety, divorce recovery, domestic violence, marriage restoration and women's issues.
(218) 736-9378 View (218) 736-9378
Photo of Susan C Brennan, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan C Brennan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brainerd, MN 56401
Do you feel discouraged about the direction your life is going? Is it difficult lately for you to make decisions? Are you grieving because of unresolved challenges in your marriage or family relationships? Talk therapy helps sort out what is not working and how to take steps toward a healthier outlook. Getting unstuck and moving again is not as difficult as it may seem once barriers are identified and resolved. Your life goals are not beyond reach, and all things are possible one step at a time.
Do you feel discouraged about the direction your life is going? Is it difficult lately for you to make decisions? Are you grieving because of unresolved challenges in your marriage or family relationships? Talk therapy helps sort out what is not working and how to take steps toward a healthier outlook. Getting unstuck and moving again is not as difficult as it may seem once barriers are identified and resolved. Your life goals are not beyond reach, and all things are possible one step at a time.
(218) 318-2408 View (218) 318-2408
Photo of Morgan Hastings, LGSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Hastings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Moorhead, MN 56560
Hi! I'm Morgan. Is your teen struggling with anxiety, depression, confidence, body image, or self-esteem? Unsure how to talk to them about these changes, or feel like you're stuck? Let me help! Are you an adult that is struggling with just how complicated life is, feeling burnt out of everything and everyone? I will help you find that inner peace and self love again. We can work on complex issues such as stress, trauma, divorce, substance use, toxic relationships, self worth, and life purpose- together. I also provide chemical dependency assessments for those involved in court matters such as family court, DWI, DUI, or OWI.
Hi! I'm Morgan. Is your teen struggling with anxiety, depression, confidence, body image, or self-esteem? Unsure how to talk to them about these changes, or feel like you're stuck? Let me help! Are you an adult that is struggling with just how complicated life is, feeling burnt out of everything and everyone? I will help you find that inner peace and self love again. We can work on complex issues such as stress, trauma, divorce, substance use, toxic relationships, self worth, and life purpose- together. I also provide chemical dependency assessments for those involved in court matters such as family court, DWI, DUI, or OWI.
(218) 438-7922 View (218) 438-7922
Photo of Kimberly Carroll, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Kimberly Carroll
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Bemidji, MN 56601
You may have begun searching for counseling after you saw a need to manage your symptoms, or perhaps a judge, family member or significant other strongly encouraged you to do so.
Some days you may not want to feel so weighted; your head to not race; your intimate partner to not be that passing ship; or so moved by compulsion. You may just need some safe space to figure it all out. This can be your sorting place. My goal is to help you better identify and understand your symptoms and improve overall coping. You are an individual, not a cookie cutter, so your treatment approach will be unique to your needs, and each person's journey is individual. Through goal setting, we can help you to develop decisions congruent with the life you want. I use CBT, ACT, mindfulness, & Gottman Method (completed Level 1 & 2).
You may have begun searching for counseling after you saw a need to manage your symptoms, or perhaps a judge, family member or significant other strongly encouraged you to do so.
Some days you may not want to feel so weighted; your head to not race; your intimate partner to not be that passing ship; or so moved by compulsion. You may just need some safe space to figure it all out. This can be your sorting place. My goal is to help you better identify and understand your symptoms and improve overall coping. You are an individual, not a cookie cutter, so your treatment approach will be unique to your needs, and each person's journey is individual. Through goal setting, we can help you to develop decisions congruent with the life you want. I use CBT, ACT, mindfulness, & Gottman Method (completed Level 1 & 2).
(218) 316-6246 View (218) 316-6246
Photo of Jeff Glover, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Jeff Glover
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collegeville, MN 56321
I specialize with substance abuse/addiction, eating disorders, and co-occurring mental health diagnosis such anxiety, depression and trauma. This includes family members. When you're not sure if it's really a problem but you're open to exploring it; when you're pretty sure it's a problem but you need help figuring out what's next; when you know it's a problem but you've struggled to find a way out.... I understand the concerns very well, professionally and personally, and I can help orient you, figure out where you want things to be, and help you develop a plan to get there.
I specialize with substance abuse/addiction, eating disorders, and co-occurring mental health diagnosis such anxiety, depression and trauma. This includes family members. When you're not sure if it's really a problem but you're open to exploring it; when you're pretty sure it's a problem but you need help figuring out what's next; when you know it's a problem but you've struggled to find a way out.... I understand the concerns very well, professionally and personally, and I can help orient you, figure out where you want things to be, and help you develop a plan to get there.
(612) 261-1928 View (612) 261-1928
Photo of Jennifer Owens, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Owens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baxter, MN 56425
I have had the opportunity to provide individual, group, couples, marital and family therapy as well as complete psychological assessments.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or simply not meeting your life goals, therapy can help. So often, clients come to me feeling as though no one else has listened to them or taken them seriously. It is my goal to make you feel heard and understood, while providing guidance to assist you to take steps to improve your well-being. My practice focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship, and helping you feel comfortable as we move forward step by step toward your goals.
I have had the opportunity to provide individual, group, couples, marital and family therapy as well as complete psychological assessments.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or simply not meeting your life goals, therapy can help. So often, clients come to me feeling as though no one else has listened to them or taken them seriously. It is my goal to make you feel heard and understood, while providing guidance to assist you to take steps to improve your well-being. My practice focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship, and helping you feel comfortable as we move forward step by step toward your goals.
(218) 297-0012 View (218) 297-0012
Photo of Deann Reese, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deann Reese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, MN 56308
We are taking new clients! Hi, my name is Deann, therapist and owner of Integrative Therapy Solutions. I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 30 years. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who serves children and adults. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I have roots in attachment and family system theories, and believe relationship is key; but I am also very solution focused in my practice. Kathleen Raml, MSW, LICSW, LADC is also taking new telehealth clients!
We are taking new clients! Hi, my name is Deann, therapist and owner of Integrative Therapy Solutions. I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 30 years. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who serves children and adults. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional. I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I have roots in attachment and family system theories, and believe relationship is key; but I am also very solution focused in my practice. Kathleen Raml, MSW, LICSW, LADC is also taking new telehealth clients!
(320) 344-3631 View (320) 344-3631
Photo of Karissa Lynn Schmoll - Karissa Schmoll Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karissa Schmoll Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moorhead, MN 56560
Are you experiencing a relationship crisis, frequent conflict, or a general sense that something is missing in your relationship? Feeling like roommates? Are you wondering if you should leave your relationship? You can learn how to create a strong, loving emotional bond with your partner! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience helping people heal relationships. I help couples find ways to increase intimacy, work through a relationship crisis, or reduce conflict. I also help families establish loving and respectful relationships between members, or work through a family crisis.
Are you experiencing a relationship crisis, frequent conflict, or a general sense that something is missing in your relationship? Feeling like roommates? Are you wondering if you should leave your relationship? You can learn how to create a strong, loving emotional bond with your partner! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience helping people heal relationships. I help couples find ways to increase intimacy, work through a relationship crisis, or reduce conflict. I also help families establish loving and respectful relationships between members, or work through a family crisis.
(218) 260-4011 View (218) 260-4011
Photo of Angie Monson - Angie Monson Therapy Services, LLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angie Monson Therapy Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nisswa, MN 56468
I approach therapy with a family systems lens, working to foster change and improve the functioning of individuals and families they are part of. I provide therapy for young children ages 2-10, in addition to adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, challenging life transitions, self-esteem, and trauma. For adults, I utilize CBT and a person-centered approach to work towards a healthier and happier life that meets you where you're at, whatever stage of life that may be. For children, my work incorporates Play Therapy techniques to allow children to express emotions, process events, and build positive connections.
I approach therapy with a family systems lens, working to foster change and improve the functioning of individuals and families they are part of. I provide therapy for young children ages 2-10, in addition to adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, challenging life transitions, self-esteem, and trauma. For adults, I utilize CBT and a person-centered approach to work towards a healthier and happier life that meets you where you're at, whatever stage of life that may be. For children, my work incorporates Play Therapy techniques to allow children to express emotions, process events, and build positive connections.
(218) 729-2230 View (218) 729-2230
Photo of Lisa E Livingston - Greater Minnesota Community Services, MS, LPCC, LADC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Greater Minnesota Community Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Moorhead, MN 56560
IFS (Internal Family Systems) helps clients access their parts and heal their parts.
I am a clinically certified trauma professional as well as an LPCC and an LADC. I am able to help clients recognize and develop coping skills to help them manage their mental health symptoms and their chemical dependency issues. I am able to help clients recognize where their possible trauma has settled within their body. I assist clients in developing awareness of their minds and body and become more mindful of their whole sense of self. No one wants to suffer and if they are, I am able to help them identify what is causing their suffering and work through it or provide them with the tools to do so once they are on their own.
IFS (Internal Family Systems) helps clients access their parts and heal their parts.
I am a clinically certified trauma professional as well as an LPCC and an LADC. I am able to help clients recognize and develop coping skills to help them manage their mental health symptoms and their chemical dependency issues. I am able to help clients recognize where their possible trauma has settled within their body. I assist clients in developing awareness of their minds and body and become more mindful of their whole sense of self. No one wants to suffer and if they are, I am able to help them identify what is causing their suffering and work through it or provide them with the tools to do so once they are on their own.
(218) 331-6599 View (218) 331-6599
Photo of Tia Dvorak - ReGroup Counseling and Consulting PSC, LMFT-S, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
ReGroup Counseling and Consulting PSC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Falls, MN 56345
Waitlist for new clients
Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient, individualized, mental health care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. We provide individual and family therapy. Our therapists have experience in many treatment areas including CBT, Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, CD Recovery, to name a few. We offer medication management with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner. We collaborate with a pediatric occupational therapist and have her onsite in our Elk River location. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their
Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient, individualized, mental health care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. We provide individual and family therapy. Our therapists have experience in many treatment areas including CBT, Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, CD Recovery, to name a few. We offer medication management with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner. We collaborate with a pediatric occupational therapist and have her onsite in our Elk River location. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their
(763) 350-9786 View (763) 350-9786
Photo of Jeri Lynn Srur, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeri Lynn Srur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bemidji, MN 56601  (Online Only)
Life Coaching, Hypnotherapy, individual, group, couple's and family therapy approaches will provide opportunities for post traumatic growth.
Jeri is Licensed Clinical Social Worker and National Board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. She received an undergraduate (minor in Substance Use & Abuse) and a graduate degree in Social Work with honors. She was in the top two percent of her Graduate Class. She carries four clinical licenses in the States of: •Illinois 149-009411 •California 20147 •North Dakota 2608 •Minnesota 24124 NPI 1376674499. She has over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in the Behavioral Health field. Her clinical experience is in Trauma and Substance Use.
Life Coaching, Hypnotherapy, individual, group, couple's and family therapy approaches will provide opportunities for post traumatic growth.
Jeri is Licensed Clinical Social Worker and National Board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. She received an undergraduate (minor in Substance Use & Abuse) and a graduate degree in Social Work with honors. She was in the top two percent of her Graduate Class. She carries four clinical licenses in the States of: •Illinois 149-009411 •California 20147 •North Dakota 2608 •Minnesota 24124 NPI 1376674499. She has over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in the Behavioral Health field. Her clinical experience is in Trauma and Substance Use.
(218) 630-7572 View (218) 630-7572

See more therapy options for Park Rapids

Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.